Testicular Cancer and the Importance of Early Diagnosis

Abstract

Prevalence of cancers is growing rapidly in all parts of the world. Testicular cancer (TC) is one of the greatest threats to health among 15to 34-year-old males. Since testicular cancer peaks in incidence among young men of reproductive age, it is an important type of cancer for men. Risk factors for testicular cancer include cryptorchidism (i.e., undescended testicles), family history, infertility, tobacco use, and white race. Therefore increasing awareness in this regard, a joint effort that encourages risk factors and preventive measures, must be shown. The treatments are very effective, which greatly increases the 5-year survival rate by approximately 98%. Prevention is the best option to tackle TC. Secondary preventive measures, the most important testicular self-examination (TSE), are well known and are encouraged to them. TSE helps prevent the diagnosis of late-stage TSE. Because the treatment of testicular cancer detected early is often associated with very positive results, routine screening and monthly self-examination in young men have been suggested. Although testicular cancer is rare, it is very effective to treat symptoms when they are diagnosed by TSE. As with breast cancer, early detection of TC is best done through self-examination.